Running can sometimes feel monotonous, especially on those longer routes. But what if you could turn that time into an opportunity to learn, laugh, or simply get lost in a good story?
Enter the world of podcasts. With thousands of podcasts to choose from, you can find the perfect auditory companion to keep you motivated and entertained. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, education, or just a way to pass the time, these podcasts to listen to while running will transform your exercise routine.
Dive in to discover top picks that will make your miles fly by and keep your mind engaged.
How We Chose the Top Podcasts to Listen to While Running
Selecting the best podcasts to listen to while running involves several key factors to ensure an engaging and motivating experience:
- 🌟 Engagement and Motivation: Captivating content that motivates and keeps you focused.
- 🎧 Audio Quality: Clear, high-quality sound for an uninterrupted listening experience.
- ⭐ Popularity and Reviews: High ratings and positive feedback from the running community.
- 🏃 Pace and Rhythm: Content that complements a steady running pace.
- 🌈 Content Variety: Diverse topics to cater to different interests.
- ⏰ Episode Length: Ideal duration, typically 30-60 minutes, matching average run times.
- 🤝 Relatability: Hosts and stories that resonate with runners.
- 🚀 Originality: Unique and innovative content that avoids monotony.
- 📅 Consistency: Regularly updated episodes to provide fresh content.
Using these criteria, we identified the top podcasts that enhance the running experience, making each session more enjoyable and engaging. Let’s get started.
Ali on the Run
- No. of Episodes: 500+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, Audible, Podbay
Ali on the Run is hosted by Ali Feller, a journalist, and avid runner who brings her passion for the sport into engaging conversations with runners of all levels and industry professionals.
Whether she’s interviewing elite athletes, everyday runners, or key figures in the running community, Ali’s easy-going and personable style makes each episode feel like a casual chat with friends.
The podcast covers a wide range of topics, including training tips, personal stories, mental health, and the role of running in life decisions, making it a relatable and inspiring listen for runners of all abilities.
Ali’s commitment to exploring the human side of running ensures that each episode is entertaining and insightful, providing listeners with motivation and practical advice.
Marathon Training Academy
- No. of Episodes: 400+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Deezer, Podbean, iHeart
Marathon Training Academy is hosted by Angie and Trevor Spencer, a dynamic wife and husband duo dedicated to helping runners achieve their marathon goals. This long-running podcast offers a wealth of information on training tips, injury prevention, nutrition, and motivational stories from elite runners and coaches.
Angie, a certified running coach, and Trevor, an experienced marathoner, mixes expert advice and personal experience with each episode. The show is known for its friendly, approachable style and comprehensive coverage of all things that are marathon-related.
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or training for your first 26.2 miles, Marathon Training Academy provides the insights and encouragement needed to succeed.
I’ll Have Another with Lindsey Hein
- No. of Episodes: 500+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podchaser
I’ll Have Another with Lindsey Hein delivers engaging and motivational conversations with a diverse array of guests, including elite athletes, everyday runners, and notable figures in the running community.
Host Lindsey Hein creates a welcoming environment that encourages her guests to share personal stories, training insights, and the ups and downs of their running journeys. The podcast covers various aspects of running, from training tips and mental health strategies to balancing life and running.
Lindsey’s ability to draw out inspiring and relatable narratives makes her podcast a favorite among runners looking for both entertainment and practical advice.
The Tim Ferriss Show
- No. of Episodes: 600+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Podbean, Amazon Music
The Tim Ferriss Show is perfect for runners looking to learn and be entertained during their workouts. Hosted by Tim Ferriss, best-selling author and entrepreneur, this podcast features deep dives into the routines and habits of world-class performers across various fields.
Tim’s interviews with athletes, entrepreneurs, scientists, and artists provide fascinating insights and practical tips on productivity, health, and success. Each episode is designed to inspire and educate, making it an ideal companion for long runs or leisurely jogs.
Podcast listeners! As the podcast recently hit its 10th anniversary, I’ve curated some of the best of the best—some of my absolute favorites—from 700+ episodes. I’ll be sharing them throughout the summer, and the first few are up now at https://t.co/X7M8hkAkry.
— Tim Ferriss (@tferriss) June 6, 2024
This… pic.twitter.com/YgdLx9AxDh
Rich Roll Podcast
- No. of Episodes: 700+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, SoundCloud, Podbean
Rich Roll Podcast offers profound and enlightening conversations with top athletes, wellness experts, and thought leaders. Host Rich Roll, an ultra-endurance athlete and wellness advocate, delves into topics ranging from fitness and nutrition to mental health and personal development. Each episode provides in-depth discussions that are both informative and inspiring.
Rich’s interviews often feature personal stories of transformation and resilience, offering listeners valuable insights into achieving peak performance and living a fulfilling life. The podcast’s diverse range of topics and high-profile guests make it a go-to source for runners looking to enhance their physical and mental well-being.
Trail Runner Nation
- No. of Episodes: 500+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbay, Audible
Trail Runner Nation is perfect for those who love hitting the trails. Hosted by Scott Warr and Don Freeman, this podcast explores the unique challenges and joys of trail running. It features interviews with trail running legends, in-depth discussions on training techniques, and tips for tackling various terrains.
The hosts’ passion for the sport shines through, making the episodes engaging and educational. Whether you’re an experienced trail runner or just starting out, Trail Runner Nation offers valuable advice and inspiration to help you conquer the trails.
A Runner’s Life Podcast
- No. of Episodes: 100+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podtail
A Runner’s Life Podcast is hosted by Marcus Brown, also known as “Marathon Marcus.” This podcast focuses on the personal stories of prolific athletes, exploring the impact running has on their everyday lives. Marcus’s charisma and enthusiasm make the podcast incredibly encouraging and enjoyable.
Episodes feature in-depth conversations with runners who share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs, offering listeners a motivational boost and a sense of connection to the running community.
The Adventure Zone
- No. of Episodes: 150+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Player.FM, Podbean
The Adventure Zone is an engaging and entertaining podcast perfect for runners who enjoy storytelling and fantasy. Hosted by the McElroy family—Griffin, Justin, Travis, and their father Clint—the podcast started as a Dungeons & Dragons playthrough and has evolved into a broader exploration of various tabletop role-playing games.
With its rich narratives, witty banter, and memorable characters, The Adventure Zone offers an immersive experience that can make your runs feel like epic adventures. It’s a great choice for those who want to escape into a fantastical world while getting their miles in.
Another Mother Runner
- No. of Episodes: 600+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Another Mother Runner is a supportive and engaging podcast hosted by Sarah Bowen Shea and co-hosted by various other moms who run. This podcast is tailored for mothers who juggle running with family and work responsibilities.
It features a mix of practical running advice, personal stories, and interviews with inspiring mother runners. The hosts create a warm and relatable atmosphere, making it easy for listeners to connect with the content.
From training tips and race strategies to discussions about the unique challenges of being a running mom, this podcast is a valuable resource for staying motivated and balanced.
The Rambling Runner
- No. of Episodes: 300+
- Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Anchor, Podtail
The Rambling Runner, hosted by Matt Chittim, brings a relatable and down-to-earth perspective on running. Matt covers a broad spectrum of topics, from personal anecdotes and solo discussions to interviews with amateur and elite runners.
The podcast’s charm lies in its casual, conversational style, making it feel like a chat with a running buddy. Whether discussing the daily grind of training, balancing life and running, or celebrating small victories, The Rambling Runner offers motivation and companionship for your runs.
Summary
Next time you go for a run, try out some of these podcasts and see which suits your personal running experience the best.
Whether it’s purely expert encouragement you’re looking for or just a casual voice in your headphones that helps keep you focused and grounded while keeping a good pace, there is a huge selection of running podcasts that is only growing with time, so it can always be a fun idea to branch out and experiment.